Kristen joined Smart Seed in 2000 and played a key role in the initial commencement of the venture capital fund. She continues to advance and manage daily business operations to support the evolution of Smart Seed as a leading early stage venture capital firm. Well organized and service driven by nature, Kristen combines integrity and sound judgement with an enthusiasm for technology and innovation. Kristen’s background includes extensive experience in operational leadership, team building, problem solving and time/priority management as well as corporate marketing and the preparation of annual reports. As an Opening Unit Director and Operations Manager with a leading national restaurant group, Kristen was responsible for launching 10 new profit centres over a six year period. During this time, Kristen was recognized as a Certified Staff Developer and also participated in redesigning the corporate training program to reflect emerging industry trends. Kristen holds a Criminology Degree from the Fraser Valley University and continues to upgrade her academic credentials with studies in marketing, communications and strategic business development at the British Columbia Institute of Technology. Kristen is a member of the Canadian Venture Capital Association, Vancouver Enterprise Forum, British Columbia Technology Association, Virtus Group and Vancouver Board of Trade. She remains active in the community through volunteer work with the Aga Khan Foundation, Kinsmen and K-Teens.